Conserving animal genetic resources

Description

Conserving animal genetic resources involves systematically identifying, preserving, and managing the genetic diversity of domesticated and wild animal species. This strategy aims to safeguard breeds at risk of extinction, maintain adaptive traits, and ensure future food security and resilience to disease or environmental change. Practical actions include establishing gene banks, promoting in situ and ex situ conservation, supporting sustainable breeding programs, and implementing policies to prevent genetic erosion and loss of valuable animal genetic material.

Context

Conservation and sustainable utilization of animal genetic resources is a necessary feature of sustainable agriculture and of animal and ecosystem conservation.

Implementation

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

The European Association for Animal Production (EAAP) and the UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)'s Global Data Bank for Animal Genetic Resources provides genetic information on cattle, sheep, goats, horses, buffaloes and pigs. FAO runs the Global Programme for Animal Genetic Resources.

The Latin American Network for the Conservation and Management of Animal Genetic Resources (REGENAL) promotes national and regional activities related to animal genetic resources, and maintains contact and communication between countries and organizations with regard to this topic.